Buckets OF FUN!

Great Yarmouth, Norfolk’s biggest resort, offers oodles of classic seaside enjoyment

- SUSANNAH HOCKHAM

Whether you want to get out your bucket and spade on the beach, paddle in the sea or shriek on a roller coaster with the kids, this east coast resort has everything you need for a memorable beach break. Its promenade teems with attractions, including two piers and a 15-mile sweep of golden sands, all just 40 minutes' drive from Norwich.

Family favourites

Once famous as a herring port, where millions of the 'silver darlings' were landed daily, the town became popular with holidaymakers in the 18th century. It's still buzzing today, attracting all ages to the Golden Mile that runs between the piers. At the south end is Pleasure Beach (pleasurebeach.co.uk), offering a wide array of white-knuckle rides, including star turn 'The Scenic', a wooden roller coaster that opened in 1932. There are gentler options too, like the Monorail that trundles along a raised track, giving splendid views across the coast. 

Further along is the Sea Life Centre (visitsealife.com/greatyarmouth), where you can meet penguins and walk through a shark tunnel. Also not to be missed is Merrivale Model Village (merrivalemodelvillage. co.uk), a quirky fixture that's been reflecting the English countryside in miniature since 1961.

Gentle waterways